All across the United States there are millions of people injured in car, truck and motorcycle accidents every year. It has been estimated that every ten seconds there is a vehicle accident. These accidents range in severity from fender benders to fatal crashes. Being a good driver is not enough to protect anyone from an accident as adverse road conditions, product malfunctions or negligent motorists can cause problems for even the most careful driver.

There are many types of motor vehicle accidents. Pedestrian hit and runs, semi-truck accidents, bike-car collisions, bus accidents, drunken driving accidents, and motorcycle crashes are all types of motor vehicle accidents. The two main causes of these accidents are negligent driving and product malfunction. Tire blow outs and air bag malfunctions would be considered product malfunctions. In these cases the manufacturers of the defective product could be held accountable for injury under the law of product liability.

In accidents caused by negligent drivers where the crash was primarily or completely the fault of one individual, the victim can seek damages including compensation for pain and suffering, disability, lost wages that are uncompensated, and more. A driver may also be liable for an automobile accident caused by intentional or reckless conduct. This kind of conduct is defined as willful and wanton disregard for the probability of causing an accident.

Minnesota in particular has what is called the no-fault law. This law makes no-fault insurance mandatory for all drivers. No-fault insurance pays for out-of-pocket losses, such as medical and chiropractic bills, lost wages and many other types of expenses incurred . It doesn't matter who caused the accident. People with serious injuries may also recover from a negligent driver for their other losses, such as pain and suffering.

When someone is involved in a motor vehicle accident it is important that they report the accident to the police immediately. Any involved driver must exchange identification and vehicle registration information. The law also requires helping individuals injured in the accident. If there is an injury, or property damage of $1,000 or more, involved drivers must fill out an accident report and mail it to the Commissioner of Public Safety. A report of the accident and injuries sustained should be given to both insurance companies in writing as soon as possible. If serious injury has occurred, or if the damage done was extensive, those involved should seek legal advice promptly.